The Great Co-Mission

On Sunday, June 15, 2014 I was Commissioned at Powerhouse Church.  I’ve had so many people ask me what is Commissioning and why did you get that medieval shield.  Well, the process of Commissioning is reading 9 books (6 of which are from the Ed Cole library of books), completing workbooks associated with each book, and writing essays on a particular theme from each book.  The entire process can take up to a year, but some people (ahem, namely me) spread it out over a longer period.  This process is monitored by a mentor who provides encouragement and discipleship to the person being Commissioned.   

I pondered on this a moment, because I want to explain it just the right way.  I find that if you deal with it superficially, it doesn’t really make sense.  Why read all those books, when you have the Bible? Why write an essay, this ain’t school?!!?!?

As I began to think about why I did this, I went to the word commission itself.  To commission means to “give an order for or authorize the production of something, to bring something in to working condition, or to appoint (someone) to the rank of officer in the armed services.”  If I look at it through the basic definition of the word, then Pastor Watkins gave the authorization to produce a leader in me.  He works with my mentors closely and trusts their decision to walk me through this process.  The Commissioning process also brought my spirit in to working order.  Commissioning is not for the faint of heart.  It stirs up your spirit and you will war against your flesh.  You will dig deeper in to the things of God.  Digging deeper stretches, which causes growth.  Lastly, I’ve been promoted to the rank of official disciple in God’s army.  I’m ready. I’m equipped.  I still have things to overcome, things to learn, and more growing to do, but this coursework has helped me to “take my place.” (Shameless plug for Pastor Watkins' book!)

Dr. Edwin Louis Cole was the mentor of our Pastor, G.F. Watkins.  His books examine the patterns and principles of how God works.  They are never to take the place of reading your word, but are a good addition to help realize the truths of God.  They aid in the digestion of God’s word.  So, Commissioning books are aids for growth and development of patterns and principles learned in your Bible.  They have encouraged a deeper pursuit of the Lord. 

When Pastor Watkins handed me my shield, he explained to me that women are provided the Shield of Faith.  We are meant to complete, not compete with men.  She has a spirit that is unique from a man and she must watch his back.  He encouraged me, stating that this was just the first step of many.  He’s right.  This is just the first step, a defining moment, the start of a beautiful journey for Christ.  There are many times of stretching coming, but I’m so grateful that I was encouraged through this time of testing, so that I can show myself approved. 

God bless!

--B